Many people have heard about melanoma and a number of you have been affected by the disease.
Although due to our increase in knowledge and education the awareness of Melanoma improving, however Melanoma is still the most common cancer among Australians from adolescent to young adults.
All skins are affected by Melanoma - ALL.
There have been a lot of instances for us when a darker skin toned customer said that they are ‘immune’ to Melanoma. Although it may be true that individuals with more pigment in their skin reduce the risk of skin cancer dramatically as they have more protection from the UV rays, but that it doesn’t mean that they are invulnerable to damages by ultra violet rays, and once the damage is done the effects of melanoma is much more drastic.
It may not form from an existing mole or spot
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. At only 1 millimetre deep, it can penetrate the blood stream and metastasise to the lungs, brain and other organs.
Moles are only an indication; it can develop from little to NO mole.
From the Cleveland clinic
“What should I look for when examining my moles?
The following ABCDEs are important signs of moles that could be cancerous. If a mole displays any of the signs listed below, have it checked immediately by a dermatologist:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
- Border: The border or edges of the mole are ragged, blurred, or irregular.
- Color: The mole has different colors, or it has multiple shades of tan, brown, black, blue, white, or red.
- Diameter: The diameter of the mole is larger than a pencil eraser.
- Elevation/Evolution: The mole becomes elevated (raised off the skin), or the mole is changing.
You should always be suspicious of a new mole that develops after the age of 30. Many of the growths that appear after the age of 30 are harmless age-associated growths rather than moles; however, if you do notice a new growth, you should see your dermatologist. He or she will examine the growth and perform a skin biopsy, if indicated. The dermatologist uses this information to decide how to treat the mole.
The most common location for melanoma in men is the back; in women, it is the lower leg. Melanoma is the most common cancer in women ages 25 to 29.
Moles can develop in any cutaneous (skin) or mucosal (mouth, eyes, genitals) surfaces. If you have had melanoma (or have a strong family history of melanoma), in addition to routine exams by a dermatologist, you should have annual check-ups.”
It is recommended to visit your GP or dermatologist if you notice any of these changes.
At SP arms we encourage everyone to check their skin regular and to get to know their skin.
Make the most of the outdoors and have fun but remember to wear sun protective clothing with a UPF 50+, which protects your skin and blocks more than 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
Dermatologists and medical doctors recommend SParms sun protective products as a great way to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays and maintaining a healthy skin.
Find out more about SParms and it's certified UPF50+ sun protective range by clicking the links below:
Sleeves UPF50+
Shoulder Wraps UPF50+
Body Shirts UPF50+
More UPF50+
SP arms Team,
This is for information purposes only, always consult your medical professional
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